Manchester United is currently struggling in finding the right sort of partnership reminiscent of their legendary duo Vidic and Ferdinand. With David De Gea they have a goalkeeper who can stop any number of shots but their penetrable defence is still susceptible to leaking goals.
Eric Bailly is out of Premier League action for some time and Marcos Rojo and Phil Jones are always susceptible to injury. It seems wise for Mourinho to go on a winter shopping. With one of these players the Red Devils will find the right shape and impenetrable defence:
1. Virgil van Dijk
One central defender who has stood out in the league this season is Southampton’s Van Dijk who would be a good partner for Eric Bailly. Strong in the air and always a threat from set pieces, van Dijk can be a valuable asset. Dijk is praised for his dribbling and clearing the balls out of defence. Eyed hungrily by many Premier League teams including struggling Manchester City and Conte’s Chelsea, United should take actions as soon as possible if they are to acquire this Dutchman’s services.
2. Raphael Varane
Only 23 years old and already 2 times European champion, Varane is a player Mourinho admires. With Sergio Ramos and Pepe being the heart of Real Madrid Defence, Varane is obviously not happy with the second fiddle role. Brought in Madrid club by Mourinho, Varane could be excited to play for his old boss. With Eric Bailly or Chris Smalling, Mourinho can forge the partnership which shall be both exciting and impenetrable. Good passer of the ball but a bad tackler, a leader in the defence Varane comes with the price tag but is definitely worth every pound.
3. Marquinhos
A quick player with a good sense of position, this young Brazilian knows how to impose himself on a game. Only 22 years old and 172 appearances in his name, this 3 times French champion centre back can be the one for years to come. Marquinhos can also play in deep midfield role which makes him a very interesting prospect. With Barcelona, Manchester United and Mourinho face a tough task to lure Marquinhos to England.
4. Aymeric Laporte
Louis van Gaal tried and failed to lure this young Frenchman while he was in charge at Manchester United. At 6 ft. 2 in. he is very strong in the air and can link up well with the midfield. Very young and with more than 120 league appearances for Athletic Bilbao, Laporte is eyed by many clubs including Liverpool. However 65 million euros buyout clause with contract expiring on 2020 makes this ball playing defender an expensive buy.
5. Seamus Coleman
The Irish Captain is a proven Right Back. In almost 200 league appearances for Everton he has scored 17 and created 15 goals. Strong in air and quick in attacking makes this experienced man a nice substitute for Valencia. Praised heavily by Manchester United Legend Roy Keane, Coleman has brought many comparisons with the likes of Dennis Irwin.